CATCH WITHOUT ARMS

I noticed a bit of buzz surrounding this band, and as such my curiosity was peaked. I saw it for cheap at a local music store and bought it. To be honest I don't understand what the big deal is. They sound to me like early Foo Fighters going a little crazy with a delay pedal. They have a very clean well produced sound, all the instruments are very clear and absolutely no feedback can be heard. Its not a very interesting listen, not even all that enjoyable. There is a concept album feel in parts, but that just may partially be because practically all the songs sound the same.

These guys are more influenced by the mid 90's alternative then anything else. You can also hear a lot of Dream Theater style progressive metal. Its nowhere near as complex as most progressive metal however.

Their style is somewhat fresh, everything has been done before but usually better. I hate to sound rude but they are playing a style of music has already peaked and almost completely died out. It even reminds me of U2's "How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb", more complex of course but the similarities are there.

The album isn't all bad, there are moments where you find yourself appreciating what is being done. The rhythm section is rather good, and you often will be listening to them more than the lead instruments/vocals. The production is excellent, smooth as a baby's bum.

It is, however, overproduced. There is no way the band sounds like this live, and I suspect that the singer is enhanced for the majority of the album. The production probably also resulted in every track sounding much to similar, which is a peril of overproduction. Overuse of the delay peddle drives me crazy (on virtually every track) and it seems to be more of a crutch stemming from lack of skill than used to enhance the sound.

All this said, yes there are some good songs. "Hung Over on a Tuesday" is a very catchy song with some great drumming. "Zebraskin" also properly utilizes the sort of alternative with metal influence nicely. Also the album closer "Matroshka (The Ornament)" is a pleasant tune, and a good note to end on. Unfortunately nothing else on the album is worthwhile.

I wouldn't suggest this album to anyone really, if you've heard a song of off it and enjoyed it is pretty much the only way I would okay the purchase of this album if asked. Not very good (but not terrible) and certainly not (at least I hope) indicative of modern prog.